Photographic Style

It’s important to show, not just tell — and photography shows off our Otter Raft spirit from all angles.

Scuba divers team on the beach

Photographic Styles

Campus Life Photo Style

The strength of us. We include more than one person in photographs unless there is a very specific reason not to (highlighting an individual in a profile or story). This subtly reminds audiences that Cal State Monterey Bay is a very human, intentionally social, and interactive community. Stylistically, shallow depth-of-field builds context while keeping human interaction at the emotional center of the image. Warm lighting and sunshine reinforce the welcoming feeling of our campus.

Campus Life in Images

Academic Photo Style

The strength of here. We communicate our academic advantages not only through highlighting campus facilities but also with photography that highlights the coastal environment and surrounding valley that make Cal State Monterey Bay so special. While still focused on the strength of mentorship and collaboration, images showcase modern spaces, labs, and off-campus locations. Images should remain bright, warm, and natural-looking. 

Various photos of students studying or in an academic
Profile Photo Style

The strength of you. As important as it is to represent strength in numbers, we also recognize the power of the individual. Our educational journey is shaped by the faculty, mentors, and peers around us — but our passion and determination come from within. Profiles are placed in relevant settings and are camera-aware, acknowledging both the value of the context and the significance of the individual. 

Various profile photos of students in their area of expertise